Chapter 37: Appointing the Pillars of Myrosh
The great hall of Myrosh Castle felt less like a conquered stronghold and more like a nascent court as Maegor began to solidify his administration. With the conquering army away, it was time to establish the internal structures that would underpin his reign. He had carefully considered Ser Kaeto's recommendations, weighing ambition, skill, and potential loyalty.
Maegor sat on his throne, Blackfyre resting casually across his lap, its dark blade a silent reminder of his ultimate authority. Ser Kaeto stood by his side, ready to summon those chosen.
"Ser Kaeto," Maegor began, his voice clear and commanding, "for the role of Steward of Myrosh County, I choose Droseo Greenjoy. His family's history, his education in Essosi law, and his… understanding of the pitfalls of a Magister's rule, will be invaluable. He will oversee our new tax collection, resource management, and administrative integration across the entire county as it falls under our control."
Kaeto nodded, a flicker of satisfaction in his eyes. Droseo was a bold choice, ambitious and cunning, but potentially fiercely loyal to a true power.
"However," Maegor continued, a new thought emerging from his assessment of the intelligence report and Kaeto's description, "Master Trombo, the leader of the transport company, possesses a unique and vital skill set. Such logistical prowess will be crucial as our domain expands and our armies move. Extend an invitation to Master Trombo to be my Caravan Master. He will be responsible for all overland supply lines, ensuring our armies are fed and our garrisons supplied. He will answer directly to me."
Kaeto raised an eyebrow slightly, impressed by Maegor's immediate recognition of such a practical, yet crucial, role. "An excellent appointment, my King. He is indeed indispensable for such tasks."
Next, Maegor moved to the castle's direct command. "For the Castellan of Myrosh Castle," Maegor declared, "I choose Ammaro. His meticulous nature, his understanding of records and castle logistics, combined with his veteran's knowledge, will ensure our stronghold is managed with precision. He will answer directly to Lord-Commander Barristan and Commander Vorian in matters of the garrison, but the castle's day-to-day operations fall to him."
"As for Brundo," Maegor continued, his gaze sharp, "he is a proven soldier, a man of the local earth, and clearly capable of leadership. He will not merely serve as a Castellan's subordinate. I name Brundo as the Commander of the Myrosh Light Infantry. He will command all 113 of those men under Ser Kaeto's overall command. He will forge them into a reliable fighting force, ready for garrison duty or deployment. His knowledge of the local men will be invaluable."
Kaeto's smile widened. Maegor was not just filling positions; he was creating a meritocracy, elevating capable local men into significant roles, binding their loyalty with power and responsibility. This would create deep roots for his rule.
Finally, the most politically sensitive appointment. "And for the Chancellor," Maegor announced, his voice firm, "I choose Rylora. Her intelligence, her education in Essosi law, and her ambition will serve our House well. She will be my chief advisor in legal and administrative matters, my voice in official communications, and she will oversee the integration of new territories into our system of governance."
He paused, then added, "And Nemarro, the leader of the trade union. His knowledge of commerce, his connections, and his ability to mediate will be vital as we establish Myrosh as a hub of trade within the county. Extend an invitation to Nemarro to be my Master of Trade. He will ensure our markets thrive, our taxes are collected fairly, and our coffers swell. He will report directly to me and Rylora."
With his choices made, Maegor now turned to the crucial task of securing their loyalty. He understood that appointment alone was not enough.
"Ser Kaeto," Maegor commanded, "bring these individuals to me. One by one. I will speak to them personally."
Over the next few days, Maegor held private audiences. He sat on his throne, Blackfyre laid across his lap, Balerion often visible through an open archway on the battlements. To each, he offered not just a position, but a vision. He spoke of a new order, a true kingdom of stability and prosperity under the Dragon's iron hand, far superior to the fragmented rule of Myr. He promised them power, status, and security for their families, guaranteeing their positions would be hereditary as long as their loyalty remained absolute. He emphasized his expectation of direct, unwavering fealty, making it clear that any hint of treachery would be met with swift, brutal consequences. He let the subtle pressure of his Draconic Persuasion and Commander's Presence work on them, instilling awe and an undeniable sense of purpose.
Droseo Greenjoy, ambitious and vindictive against his old masters, eagerly swore his loyalty, seeing Maegor as the key to his family's resurgence. Ammaro and Brundo, hardened soldiers, embraced their new, elevated roles with pragmatic loyalty. Rylora, sharp and intelligent, recognized the unparalleled opportunity and pledged herself to the Dragon, her ambition finding its true outlet. Nemarro, the trade master, seeing the promise of unprecedented stability and growth for commerce, enthusiastically agreed to serve as Master of Trade.
Maegor had not just appointed officials; he had cultivated the first true civilian vassals of his burgeoning kingdom. They were men and women of capability, bound by self-interest, ambition, and the undeniable power of the Dragon. The foundations of his administration were now firmly in place, ready to govern the County of Ergos as it fell. The wait for Barristan and Drogo's return now felt less like a pause, and more like the calm before the storm